What’s new for 2019: Visit these western Canadian destinations

Shake off the January blues and start planning your year of travel. While southern beaches and venturing to the planet’s far reaches may top your list for 2019, for many, budget constraints won’t provide the luxury of globe-trotting. Consider exploring these closer to home destinations — and why 2019 is the year to visit them.

A polar bear near Churchill, Manitoba (Courtesy Paula Worthington).

Churchill, Man.

Why go? This small town of 900 people welcomes visitors from around the world all year long, but particularly during polar bear season, which stretches between October and November. At that time of year, the bears congregate on the tundra near Churchill, waiting for the freeze-up on Hudson Bay to happen so they can return to their winter seal hunt. Exploring the frozen landscape in the comfort of a “Tundra Buggy” provides a great opportunity to view polar bears in their natural habitat, gain an understanding of their important place in the ecosystem, and learn about life in the North. Polar Bear Week takes place during the first full week of November and highlights the work being done by Polar Bears International to conserve these incredible creatures.

Why 2019? After nearly 18 months of closure due track damage from floods, Via Rail service has returned to Churchill, making the trip 1,200 km north of Winnipeg more economical than flying. Also, in 2019 Polar Bears International will be opening its own House in Churchill, serving as an important research base, function space and interpretive centre for visitors. Can’t get there in person? Bookmark the Polar Bear Cam in your browser for a chance to watch the bears from the comfort of your couch.

Why go? This picturesque region of Vancouver Island has it all: hiking, mountain biking, paddling, skiing, golf, swimming and local farms. Pedal scenic country roads or sample the offerings at one of the region’s many microbreweries, wineries or cider houses. Paddleboard to a pub or browse local shops in Courtenay, Comox and nearby Cumberland.

Why 2019? The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa (located just south of Courtenay) recently opened its newly renovated Ocean Courtyard Rooms, offering spectacular views of their new Serenity Gardens and the ocean beyond. Every detail has been attended to, including handcrafted lighting fixtures created by the same company as Disneyland and Fairmont properties, and West Coast Craftsman design inside and out. Don’t miss a visit to the Hydropath in the recently renovated Pacific Mist Spa, which offers a unique journey through a variety of hydrotherapy experiences to soothe muscles and aches. Gaze out at the water from AQUA Bistro & Wine Bar and Ocean7 Restaurant, featuring fresh-caught seafood specialties and cocktails featuring regional flavours like cedar-infused gin and local beers.

An oTENTik under dark skies (Courtesy Parks Canada).

Grasslands National Park, Sask.

Why go? Why limit your sightseeing to the day? Declared a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Grasslands National Park is also known as Canada’s “darkest” Dark Sky Preserve, thanks to its very limited light pollution and big skies.

Why 2019? Love to camp with your pet, but don’t want to lug a tent? There’s a new, dog-friendly oTENTik in the park campgrounds. The oTENTik, exclusive to Parks Canada, is a spacious blend of a tent and an A-frame cabin equipped with beds and furniture on a raised floor. They rent for $100/night. Be sure to book early for best availability.

Why go? Stunning mountain views and a plethora of outdoor activities abound in Kananaskis Country and Banff, but it’s the relaxation after all the adventures that is the draw this year …

Why 2019? The recently opened Kananaskis Nordic Spa lets visitors soak in a variety of hot, warm and cold pools (following Scandinavian wellness principles), saunas, steam rooms, and heated hammocks in a beautiful outdoor environment. Gaze up at the surrounding peaks, or sit next to a fire in your thick fleece robe. Spa treatments and a cosy bistro are also on-site.

The newly opened Canalta Lodge has opened in Banff (the former site of the Spruce Grove Inn) after a $6-million renovation. After a day in the mountains, guests can relax in the property’s hot tub, sauna or take a plunge in the cold pool. Complimentary campfire and evening s’more service is also provided.

A sneak peek of the new wine cellar at The Wickaninnish Inn (Courtesy of The Wickaninnish Inn).

Tofino, B.C.

Why go? Located on the west side of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a surfers’ and beachcombers’ paradise. Think towering cedars, pounding waves, fresh fish tacos, beachside inns complete with fireplaces and ocean views. In a world that’s gone a bit mad, the allure of venturing to the end of the road with nothing but the Pacific Ocean in your sights is enough to put your mind at ease.

Why 2019? The iconic Wickaninnish Inn is putting the final touches on its new wine cellar, complete with a six-metre-long yellow cedar table and three temperature-controlled rooms. The Inn’s On The Rocks Bar recently went through a transformation, and this past year they also released The Wickaninnish Cookbook, letting you re-create your favourite west coast culinary creations at home.

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